Wayne State College’s free planetarium and laser shows continue Friday and Saturday, Feb. 16-17, in the Fred G. Dale Planetarium. The public is invited.
On Friday, Feb. 16, the planetarium show “Earth, Moon, and Sun” will be at 7 p.m., followed by the laser show “Laser Classic Rock” at 8 p.m.
“Earth, Moon, and Sun” is designed for children 10 years of age and younger.
On Saturday, Feb. 17, the planetarium show “Skywatchers of Africa” will be at 1 p.m., followed by the laser show “Laser Fun” at 2 p.m.
“Skywatchers of Africa” highlights the diversity of African astronomy, examines cultural uses of the sky that developed throughout history, and celebrates our shared human experience.
Every weekend features a new planetarium show about a universe-sized number of topics, including the Solar System, multicultural astronomy, and the search for life in the universe; guests can also enjoy the lights and music of the many laser shows presented throughout the season, including Laser Classic Rock, Laser Country, Laser Beatles, and Laser Pink Floyd.
Anyone who attends a planetarium show will receive a free pair of solar eclipse glasses.
The planetarium is located on the lowest level of Wayne State’s Carhart Science Building. Guests should use the southwest doors to enter. Once inside, go to the stairs at the south end of the building and go down to the lowest level. Guests may also take the elevator. Carhart Science and the planetarium are handicap accessible.
Doors open 20 minutes prior to the start of a show and shows generally include a tour of the current night sky, a view of the constellations, and a full dome video.
All shows last about 45 minutes. Those wanting to book a private planetarium show should visit www.wsc.edu/planetarium and click “Contact the Planetarium” to complete the online reservation form. For more information and to view the complete schedule of planetarium and laser shows, visit www.wsc.edu/planetarium, or contact Dr. Todd Young, director of the Fred G. Dale Planetarium, at 402-375-7471 or toyoung1@wsc.edu.
Solar Eclipse Talks
With a solar eclipse coming April 8, Dr. Todd Young is offering a presentation to educate various groups and organizations on the science of solar eclipses. If you are interested in having Young present this talk to your group, please contact him directly at 402-375-7471 or toyoung1@wsc.edu. The presentation can be tailored for any age.
In the lobby of the planetarium, solar glasses for looking at the Sun are for sale. They are $2 for one pair of glasses or $5 for three pairs. Never look at the sun without using proper solar glasses.
